While Gears of War 3 has yet to be officially announced, a “trusted US publishing source” says Epic Game’s new title will release April 2011, according to Edge.

“Microsoft’s keen to avoid a clash with Halo: Reach and wants Natal to own Christmas. That’s why we won’t be seeing Gears of War 3 until next year, but expect a major marketing push ahead of its release.”

When contacted, a Microsoft representative told Edge it does not comment on rumors or speculation. But whether or not the rumor is true, Epic vice president Mark Rein has made it rather clear that the developer won’t be releasing any games in 2010. Instead, the company will turn its focus toward supporting customers of its Unreal Engine.

The first trailer is expected to hit April 8 while the full reveal will wait until E3 in June.